In this job you would check accuracy and efficiency within a workplace. If you want a career in finance and business, and enjoy checking and analysing, this job could be ideal for you. To do this job, you will need to have excellent maths and IT skills.

Tasks:

• examining company accounts
• collecting and interpreting figures
• identifying any problems or risks to the business
• assessing the company's financial reporting systems
• establishing good working relationships with clients
• making recommendations for improvements.

• the ability to interpret figures and information
• excellent maths and IT skills
• good spoken and written communication skills
• strong analytical and problem-solving ability
• good organisational and time management skills
• a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail
• the ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• a good understanding of business
• honesty and discretion, for dealing with sensitive business information.

To become an external auditor, you must first qualify as a qualified chartered accountant with one of the following professional bodies:

• Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)
• Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW)
• Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland (ICAS)
• Chartered Accountants Ireland (CAI)
• Association of International Accountants (AIA).

To start training as an accountant with any of these organisations, you will normally need:

• at least three GCSEs (A-C) including English and maths
• plus two A levels or equivalent qualifications, or work experience.